Manitoba to send ICU patients to Alberta as it struggles with COVID-19

EDMONTON – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is throwing a lifeline to counterparts in Manitoba as the province battles a difficult third wave of COVID-19.

AHS says Manitoba will send up to 10 patients who are currently in ICUs to Alberta to be cared for in Calgary or Edmonton hospitals.

The health agency says Alberta has enough ICU capacity to take on the extra patients from Manitoba while still caring for Alberta’s critically ill.

“With our hospitalizations falling in line with the recent trend in cases, we have available capacity to help our neighbours,” said Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro in a release.

“The staff and physicians in our hospitals and across our health system have worked hard to meet the needs of patients throughout the pandemic. I know they are tired, but I also know how deeply committed they are to caring for patients, and I know they will come through again.”

AHS says it’s coordinating with colleagues in Manitoba to determine which patients will be transferred to Alberta.

AHS’s CEO, Verna Yiu, says Albertans will still be the top priority, but we are fortunate enough to be able to help out when needed.

“We have a long tradition of working with our neighbours to share expertise, resources and learnings, and we stand alongside Manitoba as they deal with this pandemic and its impact on patient care. I am so grateful and appreciative of our teams, and I thank them for all their efforts.”

She said the Manitobans sent to Alberta will receive the best care Alberta’s healthcare staff can offer.